Lions Claw Back for Third Win
Denville, NJ - After two disappointing results the Lions needed a win to keep the playoff push going. It was a professional performance from the team who, despite seeing a goal disallowed, maintained an impressive confidence in their game. After a hard fought 70 minutes, in which the Lions saw 12 attempts at goal blocked or saved, found themselves behind through a PK. Keeping their cool and eyes on the prize RV won a penalty through the hard work of Marco Martinez with 5 minutes left which was calmly converted by Sophomore Chris Medrano to send the game into overtime.
Needing a win, RV went all out attack in the dying minutes of overtime. Who else but Chris Medrano, playing through injury, chipped the back line of Morris for Freshman Alex Cervantes, who having three previous attempts saved, would not be denied when the pressure was on. Freshman Ralph Russo was a player of note for two last ditch challenges to keep the Lions in the game after slips from fellow defenders.
"I couldn't be more proud of these young men" Coach Mark Malchow said "they stepped up under pressure. I feel like this is a turning point in our season and their development as players. It was a game we could have lost our heads in, but ground out a result though work and willpower."
The Lions now sit at 3-4 on the season with a very important matchup against Ocean County College on Thursday at 4 PM on the Lions' home field.
